Mapusa, 15th August 2025 – The 79th Independence Day was celebrated with great enthusiasm and patriotic fervour at Mapusa under the leadership of Hon’ble Tourism Minister, Shri Rohan Khaunte. The event commenced with hoisting the tricolor at the hands of TM Khaunte. The minister then inspected the parade and acceptance salute from Goa police and NCC cadets as well as from students of different schools from the Bardez Taluka.
Independence day celebrations were followed by a vibrant cultural programme that showcased Goa’s rich heritage. The former Deputy Speaker Shri Ulhas Asnodkar, the Collector and Additional Collector Mamlatdar were also present at the event.
As part of the celebrations, fishermen, agriculturists, kirtankars, bhajan Artists, tiatrists, and sportspersons were felicitated for their contribution to preserving and promoting the cultural, social, and sporting fabric of Goa.
In his address, Tourism Minister Shri Rohan Khaunte paid tribute to the nation’s freedom fighters and reiterated Goa’s role in building a self-reliant and culturally vibrant India. Speaking about Goa’s tourism potential, he said “Goa today is not just a destination for leisure, but a beacon of regenerative tourism, where we are reviving our heritage, culture, and traditions while creating opportunities for our youth. Events like these remind us that the true meaning of freedom lies in empowering our communities, preserving our identity, and contributing to the nation’s growth. We are delivering on our promises to the people of Goa by empowering every Goan through the transformative potential of connectivity, innovation, and opportunity. To achieve the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat, we are harnessing the power of digitalization and connectivity, ensuring no citizen is left behind. In alignment with our Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision of Viksit Bharat, we are empowering every woman and youth to lead, through Yuva Shakti and Mahila Shakti, ensuring that development is inclusive, progressive, and transformative.”
The programme concluded with leaving the gathering inspired and committed to contributing towards the state’s and the nation’s progress.
